Authored by Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering
Recently, I’ve hit the nine-month mark of my time in London. While this may not seem like a long duration, I’ve gained a lot of insights. London is a bustling metropolis, renowned not only for its wide array of housing options but also for its lively communities. Students have numerous alternatives available to them. Both student residences and private rentals provide choices such as ensuite and suite bathrooms, shared or private rooms, studio flats, and house shares. Local students can easily arrange viewings, while platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom allow international students to explore potential housing online, evaluate amenities, and check the proximity to public transportation.
In my quest for a living space, my goal was to rent a room in Central London to stay close to major sights, social hotspots, and the Imperial campus. The city is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. London boasts an exceptional transport network, including the underground (tube), buses, and trains, facilitating easy navigation and travel between zones. I aimed to lower travel expenses since moving between zones can cost up to £5.25 daily. I decided to walk shorter distances instead of relying on the bus or tube. Nonetheless, oyster card options have made commutes to university more budget-friendly. Moreover, London Overground and National Rail services reach beyond the Underground network, serving areas outside central London. Fares for inter-zone travel fluctuate based on distance and the pricing policies of each train operator. The prominent attractions in Central London contribute to elevated living costs. Fortunately, I shared university experiences with a friend, and we chose to share a room, which significantly reduced our rent. I favored intercollegiate student accommodations to meet peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups, something that would have been more challenging through private rentals.
Being near grocery stores was essential for me. Common supermarkets include Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op, while more affordable options are Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Having essential shops like supermarkets and pharmacies nearby saves valuable time on errands, particularly during exam seasons.
Selecting a neighborhood to reside in poses a challenge. London’s ethnic communities form a vital part of its cultural landscape, offering a rich array of diverse neighborhoods. Many international students look for familiarity with their homeland within London. Southall in West London has a significant South Asian community, complete with Indian restaurants, grocery shops, and traditional clothing stores. Brixton in South London is known for its Afro-Caribbean community and energetic music scene. Chinatown in the heart of London’s West End is a lively spot featuring numerous Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. These are merely a few illustrations of community-driven neighborhoods.
The best locations to live in London hinge on your preferences and requirements. When seeking a new residence in London, embrace the diverse and rich accommodation options, explore cultural enclaves, and relish the convenience and excitement of this extraordinary city.